Nikolai Podgorny
Ukrainian engineer and politician
An engineer and politician served in significant roles in Soviet Ukraine. Played an essential part in the Soviet leadership hierarchy during the 1960s and 1970s. Held the position of Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet from 1965 to 1977, which was a key post within the Soviet governmental structure, influencing various policies and initiatives.
Served as Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet
Active in the Communist Party of Ukraine
Other People Born on February 18th
Radek Černý
Czech footballer, goalkeeper
Born
February 18th, 1974 51 years ago
A Czech footballer played as a goalkeeper, spending the majority of his career in the Czech First League. Began professional career in 1991 with Sigma Olomouc. Played two seasons with Slovan Liberec, contributing to the team’s success in the league. Transferred to Sparta Prague, where achieved notable accolades, including Czech league titles. Experienced in multiple international matches, representing the national team.
Continue ReadingQueen Komal of Nepal
Queen of Nepal and humanitarian advocate
Born
February 18th, 1951 74 years ago
Born in 1951, she became the queen consort of Nepal in 1970 through marriage to King Gyanendra. The queen took an active role in charitable works, focusing on education and health initiatives, while also engaging in activities to promote cultural preservation. Her efforts supported various foundations and social causes throughout Nepal, especially in the areas of women's rights and children's education.
Continue ReadingKara Braxton
Basketball player, WNBA champion
Born
February 18th, 1983 42 years ago
Played professional basketball in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) and overseas. Competed for teams including the Detroit Shock and the Atlanta Dream. Won a WNBA championship with the Detroit Shock in 2006. Also represented the USA in international competitions.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Redi
Italian physician and biologist
Born
February 18th, 1626 399 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1697 328 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in experimental biology, contributed significantly to the study of spontaneous generation. Conducted experiments demonstrating that maggots on decaying meat came from eggs laid by flies, not generated spontaneously. Published 'Esperienze Intorno alla Generazione degl'Insetti' in 1668, which laid the groundwork for the field of microbiology. Served as a physician to the Grand Duke of Tuscany and was involved in the study of parasitology, notably investigating the life cycles of various parasites.
Continue ReadingBryan Oviedo
Costa Rican footballer with Everton tenure
Born
February 18th, 1990 35 years ago
A professional footballer specialized in defense and midfield positions. Played for several clubs including Everton in the English Premier League and represented the Costa Rican national team in multiple international tournaments. Contributed to Costa Rica's successful campaign during the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where the team reached the quarter-finals. Also played in key club tournaments across various leagues, showcasing skills in both domestic and international matches.
Continue ReadingCharles-Irénée Castel de Saint-Pierre
French philosopher and author of treaties
Born
February 18th, 1658 367 years ago
Died
1743 283 years ago — 85 years old
Born in France in 1658, an influential philosopher and author contributed to early ideas on peace and international cooperation. Authored several works that focused on social and political philosophy, highlighting the importance of reason and coexistence. Worked on concepts of progress and the development of society, emphasizing rationality in human affairs. Engaged in discussions about forming a European federation and promoting peaceful resolutions to conflicts, setting the stage for future philosophical and political thought.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 12th
Connie Binsfeld
American politician and educator, 58th Lt. Gov.
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2014 12 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the 58th Lieutenant Governor of Michigan from 1991 to 1995. Worked extensively in education, contributing to the advancement of educational policies in the state. Held various positions in public service, including serving in the Michigan House of Representatives. Participated in numerous boards and committees focused on education reform and community service. Engaged in grassroots efforts to improve local communities through educational initiatives.
Continue ReadingJohn Tovey
Admiral, 1st Baron Tovey
Born
March 7th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1971 55 years ago — 85 years old
Served in the Royal Navy, achieved the rank of Admiral and was appointed 1st Baron Tovey. Played a crucial role during World War II, leading naval operations and demonstrating strategic naval command. Known for contributions to the Battle of the Atlantic, overseeing anti-submarine warfare efforts. Engaged in post-war naval policy and modernization, influencing the future of the Royal Navy.
Continue ReadingWilliam Redington Hewlett
Co-founder of Hewlett-Packard
Born
May 20th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2001 25 years ago — 87 years old
An American engineer and businessman co-founded Hewlett-Packard in 1939, a pioneering company in the electronics industry known for quality computing and measurement devices. The company initially gained success with the production of audio oscillators. Under effective leadership, the business expanded its range of products, influencing the growth of Silicon Valley. Hewlett also served as a director of the board for several organizations and was involved in various philanthropic activities throughout his career. His contributions to the technology sector helped shape the landscape of modern computing.
Continue ReadingEdward Smith
English sea captain of RMS Titanic
Born
January 27th, 1850 176 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1940 86 years ago — 89 years old
A sea captain, served as the captain of RMS Titanic during its ill-fated maiden voyage. After years of experience with the White Star Line, commanded several luxury liners. Titanic sank on April 15, 1912, after hitting an iceberg, resulting in significant loss of life. Smith had a reputation for being an experienced mariner before the disaster occurred. His last voyage became a pivotal moment in maritime history, highlighting the need for improved safety regulations in naval transportation.
Continue ReadingAlan Nunn May
Physicist and espionage agent
Born
1911 115 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2003 23 years ago — 92 years old
An English physicist worked on nuclear physics and contributed to the Manhattan Project. Engaged in espionage activities during World War II, providing information to the Soviet Union about atomic research. Involved in various academic institutions, focusing on the development of nuclear technology. Post-war, held positions in academia while navigating the complexities of science and security.
Continue ReadingGlenda Dickerson
Director and choreographer of theater
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2012 14 years ago — 67 years old
An influential director and choreographer in theater, contributed to the arts as an educator. Worked extensively in the realm of African American theater, promoting cultural representation. Directed acclaimed productions including 'In the Blood' and 'The Vagina Monologues'. Served as a professor and taught various aspects of theater and performance, inspiring future generations of artists.
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